In the South-West Coast, the popularity of hockey is growing - fast.
To boost the region's suitability to host lead-up matches to the Commonwealth Games, and support the Club to cater for its growing junior ranks, a Matt Guy Liberals and Nationals Government will deliver a $6.6 million redevelopment of Warrnambool Hockey Club, including:
The redevelopment will allow the South-West Coast to host training and warm up matches prior to the 2026 Commonwealth Games and provide a piece of legacy sporting infrastructure that will have flow-on economic benefits for the region.
The inclusion of dedicated Hockey5s pitches is particularly exciting for Warrnambool as the new format continues to gain popularity around the world.
Shadow Minister for Sport, Cindy McLeish, said the commitment would position Warrnambool as a key city to host big events in the future.
"The redevelopment will allow Warrnambool to host Women's World Cup practice matches, should Australia's bid to host the 2026 tournament be successful," Ms McLeish said.
"For Warrnambool to be home to the first dedicated Hocky5s pitch in the country is a massive drawcard for the growth of the sport, and the wider region.
"This will bring hockey players, coaches and supporters from across Victoria, Australia and beyond in what will be a huge economic boon for the region."
Member for South-West Coast, Roma Britnell, and Liberal Leader, Matt Guy, were joined by players and club members to announce the redevelopment at Warrnambool District Hockey Association.
Ms Britnell paid tribute to the hard work of the Warrnambool District Hockey Association in the planning and development stages of the revamped facility.
"The association has a clear vision not only to grow the sport locally and regionally, but to provide a platform for Warrnambool and the South-West Coast to be a destination location for national and international training and matches," she said.
"This commitment sets South-West Coast up to be an option for the international training camps for the Commonwealth Games.
"Additionally, it will be able to host National Hockey League HockeyOne matches, Victorian Premier League matches and other state development camps and tournaments, many of which are held in our tourism low season.
"This will also provide benefits to our region particularly for the hospitality, accommodation and tourism sectors that have been smashed due to the Andrews Labor Government's lockdowns and restrictions."
